Geoff Garrod
Headkeeper, Audley End Estate
Geoff has been a gamekeeper for many years. When he is not spending quality time with his granddaughter, Geoff is pigeon or clay shooting.
Q: Tell us a bit about yourself and what got you into gamekeeping?
A: My love of shooting and the outdoors influenced my decision to go into gamekeeping.
My dad was a keeper. He and another keeper called Martin Taylor who worked on the great Six Mile Bottom Estate inspired me to pursue my career.
Q: What is your most memorable moment as a gamekeeper?
A: I have been a keeper for over 40 years. The most memorable moment was this year when my son joined our estate as a beatkeeper. I was so proud!
My greatest achievement as a gamekeeper is taking Audley End Estate from a poorly-ran shoot which left the boss facing the prospect of closing the shoot down, to a success.
Q: What’s the best thing about being a gamekeeper?
A: The challenges, whether this be from within the job and getting things right or challenges that come from outside.
Q: Do you think there is a future for gamekeepers and what advice would you give to someone thinking of a career?
A: Yes, but it will change and continue to change.
If you want to work to protect wildlife in our country, become a gamekeeper.
Q: What do you do in your free time?
A: I work with NGO pigeon and clay shooting. I also spend time with our granddaughter.
Q: What is your most essential bit of kit?
A: My quadbike!
